Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat training can be given by any
person authorized by the council, including a BSA Aquatics resource
person, a unit leader with aquatics skill, or any other person with
aquatics knowledge or experience whom the local council has approved.

Before a BSA group may engage in swimming activities of
any kind, a minimum of one adult leader must complete Safe Swim Defense
training, have a commitment card (No. 34243) with them, and agree to use
the eight defenses in this plan.

One of the best opportunities for Safe Swim Defense training is in
summer camp. The eight defenses are:

Qualified Supervision
All swimming activity must be supervised by a mature and
conscientious adult age 21 or older who understands and knowingly
accepts responsibility for the well-being and safety of youth
members in his or her care, who is experienced in the water and
confident of his or her ability to respond in the event of an
emergency, and who is trained in and committed to compliance with
the eight points of BSA Safe Swim Defense. (It is strongly
recommended that all units have at least one adult or older youth
member currently certified as a BSA Lifeguard to assist in the
planning and conduct of all swimming activity.)

Physical Fitness
Require evidence of fitness for swimming activity with a complete
health history from physician, parent, or legal guardian. The
adult supervisor should adjust all supervision, discipline, and
protection to anticipate any potential risks associated with
individual health conditions. In the event of any significant health
conditions, the unit leader should require proof of an examination
by a physician.
Those with physical disabilities can enjoy and benefit from aquatics
if the handicaps are known and necessary precautions are taken.

Safe Area
When swimming in areas not regularly maintained and used for
swimming activity, have lifeguards and swimmers systematically
examine the bottom of the swimming area to determine varying depths,
deep holes, rocks, and stumps. Mark off the area for three
groups: not more than 3Ĺ feet deep for nonswimmers; from shallow
water to just over the head for beginners; deep water not more than
12 feet for swimmers. A participant should not be permitted to
swim in an area where he cannot readily recover and maintain his
footing, or cannot maintain his position on the water, because of
swimming ability or water flow. When setting up a safe swimming area
in natural waters, use poles stuck in the bottom, or plastic
bottles, balloons, or sticks attached to rock anchors with twine for
boundary markers. Enclose non-swimmer and beginner areas with buoy
lines (twine and floats) between markers. Mark the outer bounds of
the swimmer area with floats. Be sure that clear-water depth is at
least 7 feet before allowing anyone to dive into the. Diving is
prohibited from any height more than 40 inches above the water
surface; feet-first entry is prohibited from more than 60 inches
above the water. For any entry from more than 18 inches above the
water surface, clear-water depth must be 10 to 12 feet. Only surface
swimming is permitted in turbid water. Swimming is not permitted in
water over 12 feet deep, in turbid water where poor visibility and
depth would interfere with emergency recognition or prompt rescue,
or in whitewater, unless all participants wear appropriate personal
flotation devices and the supervisor determines that swimming with
personal flotation equipment is safe under the circumstances.

Lifeguards on Duty
Swim only where there are lifeguards on duty. For unit swims in
areas where lifeguards are not provided by others, the supervisor
should designate two capable swimmers as lifeguards. Station
them ashore, equipped with a lifeline (a 100-foot length of 3/8-inch
nylon cord). In an emergency, one carries out the line; the other
feeds it out from shore, then pulls in his partner and the person
being helped. In addition, if a boat is available, have two people,
preferably capable swimmers, take it out -one rowing and the other
equipped with a 10-foot pole or extra oar. Provide one guard for
every 10 people in the water, and adjust the number and positioning
of guards as needed to protect the particular area and activity.

Lookout
Station a lookout on the shore where it is possible to see and hear
everything in all areas. The lookout may be the adult in charge of
the swim and may give the buddy signals.

Ability Groups
Divide into three ability groups:Nonswimmers,beginners, and
swimmers. Keep each group in its own area. Non-swimmers
have not passed a swimming test. Beginners must pass this
test: jump feetfirst into water over the head in depth, level off,
swim 25 feet on the surface. Stop, turn sharply, resume swimming as
before and return to the starting place. Swimmers pass this
test: jump feet-first into water over the head in depth. Level off
and swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the
following strokes: sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl; then
swim 25 yards using an easy resting backstroke. The 100 yards must
be completed in one swim without stops and include at least one
sharp turn. After completing the swim, rest by floating. These
classification tests should be renewed annually, preferably at the
beginning of the season.

Buddy System
Pair every youth with another in the same ability group.
Buddies check in and out of the swimming area together.
Emphasize that each buddy lifeguards his buddy. Check everyone in
the water about every ten minutes. The adult in charge signals for a
buddy check with a single blast of a whistle or ring of a bell and a
call of ''Buddies!'' The adult counts slowly to ten while buddies
join and raise hands and remain still and silent. Guards check all
areas, count the pairs, and compare the total with the number known
to be in the water. Signal two blasts or bells to resume swimming.
Signal three blasts or bells for checkout.

Discipline
Be sure everyone understands and agrees that swimming is allowed
only with proper supervision and use of the complete Safe Swim
Defense. The applicable rules should be presented and learned
prior to the outing, and should be reviewed for all participants at
the waterís edge just before the swimming activity begins. Scouts
should respect and follow all directions and rules of the adult
supervisor. When people know the reason for rules and procedures
they are more likely to follow them. Be strict and fair, showing no
favoritism.

The swimmer test demonstrates the minimum level of swimming ability
required for safe deep-water swimming. The various components of the
test evaluate the several skills essential to this minimum level of
swimming ability:

Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off,
and begin swimming. Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more
of the following strokes: sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl;
then swim 25 yards using an easy, resting backstroke. The 100 yards
must be completed in one swim without stops and include at least one
sharp turn. After completing the swim, rest by floating.

The test administrator must objectively evaluate the individual
performance of the test, and in so doing should keep in mind the purpose
of each test element.

"Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level
off, and begin swimming..."
The swimmer must be able to make an abrupt entry into deep water and
begin swimming without any aids. Walking in from shallow water,
easing in from the edge or down a ladder, pushing off from side or
bottom, or gaining forward momentum by diving do not satisfy this
requirement.

"...Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the
following strokes: sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or
crawl;..."
The swimmer must be able to cover distance with a strong, confident
stroke. The 75 yards must not be the outer limit of the swimmer's
ability; completion of the distance should give evidence of
sufficient stamina to avoid undue risks. Dog-paddling and strokes
repeatedly interrupted and restarted are not sufficient; underwater
swimming is not permitted. The itemized strokes are inclusive. Any
strong side or breaststroke or any strong overarm stroke (including
the back crawl) is acceptable.

"...swim 25 yards using; an easy, resting backstroke..."
The swimmer must indicate the ability to execute a restful,
free-breathing backstroke that can be used to avoid exhaustion
during swimming activity. This element of the test necessarily
follows the more strenuous swimming activity to show that the
swimmer is, in fact, able to use the backstroke as a relief from
exertion. The change of stroke must be accomplished in deep water
without any push- off or other aid. Any variation of the elementary
may suffice if it clearly provides opportunity for the swimmer to
rest and regain wind.

"...The 100 yards must be completed in one swim without stops
and include at least one sharp turn..."
The total distance is to be covered without rest stops. The sharp
turn simply demonstrates the swimmer's ability to reverse direction
in deep water without assistance or push-off from side or bottom.

"...After completing the swim, rest by floating.''
This critically important component of the test evaluates the
swimmer's ability to maintain in the water indefinitely even though
exhausted or otherwise unable to continue swimming. Treading water
or swimming in place will further tire the swimmer and are therefore
unacceptable. The duration of the float test is not significant,
except that it must be long enough for the test administrator to
determine that swimmer is, in fact, resting and could likely
continue to do so for a prolonged time. The drown proofing technique
may be sufficient if clearly restful, but it is not preferred. If
the test is completed except for the float requirement, the swimmer
may be retested on the floating only (after instruction) provided
that the test administrator is confident that the swimmer can
initiate the float when exhausted.

Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off,
swim 25 feet on the surface, stop, turn sharply, resume swimming as
before, and return to starting place.

The entry and turn serve the same purpose as in the swimmer test. The
swimming can be done with any stroke, but no underwater swimming is
permitted. The stop assures that the swimmer can regain a stroke if it
is interrupted. The test demonstrates that the beginning swimmer is
ready to learn deepwater skills and has the minimum ability required for
safe swimming in a confined area in which shallow water, sides, or other
support is less than 25 feet from any point in the water.

The Safe Swim Defense applies to swimming at the beach, private or
public pool, wilderness pond, stream, lake, or anywhere Scouts swim.
Here are some additional points for the pool and the surf.

Pool--If the swimming activity is in a public facility where others
are using the pool at the same time, and the pool operator provides
guard personnel, there may be no need for additional designation of
Scout lifeguards and lookout.

The buddy system is critically important. however, even in a public
pool. Remember. even in a crowd, you are alone without protection if no
one is attentive to your circumstances.

The rule that people swim only in water suited to their ability and
with others of similar ability applies in a pool environment. Most
public pools divide shallow and deep water, and this may be sufficient
for defining appropriate swimming areas. If not, the supervisor should
clearly indicate to the participating Scouts the appropriate areas of
the public facility. Although such procedures add a margin of safety,
their use may not always be practical when the swim activity is
conducted at a public facility where non-Scouts are present. A
responsible adult supervisor, who understands his or her responsibility
and the elements of safety, can exercise discretion regarding certain
procedures while maintaining safety.

Surf--The surf swimming environment of wave action, currents, tides,
undertow, runouts, and sea pests like stinging jellyfish requires
precautions for safe swimming that aren't necessary in other
environments. A swimmer's physical condition is very important and
should enable the swimmer to recover footing in waves, swim vigorously
for at least five minutes without becoming exhausted. and remain calm
and in control when faced with unexpected conditions.

Designated swimming areas are marked by flags or pennants that are
easily seen. Beginners and nonswimmers are positioned inshore from the
standing lifeguards equipped with reach poles. Better swimmers are
permitted seaward of the lifeguard but must remain shoreward of anchored
marker buoys. The lifeguard-to-swimmer ratio should always be 1-to- 10,
with a rescue team stationed at the beach area and supplied with a
rescue tube or torpedo buoy.

Safety Afloat has been developed to promote boating and boating
safety and to set standards for safe unit activity afloat. Before a
BSA group may engage in an excursion, expedition, or trip on the water
(canoe, raft, sailboat, motorboat, rowboat, tube, or other craft), adult
leaders for such activity must complete "Safety Afloat
Training," No. 34159A, have a "Commitment Card:, No. 34242A,
with them, and be dedicated to full compliance with all nine points of
Safety Afloat.

Qualified Supervision
All activity afloat must be supervised by a mature and conscientious
adult age 21 or older who understands and knowingly accepts
responsibility for the well-being and safety of the children in his
or her care, who is experienced and qualified in the particular
watercraft skills and equipment involved in the activity, and who is
committed to compliance with the nine points of BSA Safety Afloat.
One such supervisor is required for each ten people, with a minimum
of two adults for any one group. At least one supervisor must be age
21 or older, and the remaining supervisors must be age 18 or older.
All supervisors must complete BSA Safety Afloat and Safe Swim
Defense training, and rescue training for the type of watercraft to
be used in the activity, and at least one must be certified in CPR.
It is strongly recommended that all units have at least one adult or
older youth member currently certified as a BSA Lifeguard to assist
in the planning and conduct of all activity afloat.For Cub Scouts: The ratio of adult supervisors to
participants is one to five.

Physical Fitness
All persons must present evidence of fitness assured by a complete
health history from physician, parent, or legal guardian. The
adult supervisor should adjust all supervision, discipline, and
protection to anticipate any potential risks associated with
individual health conditions. In the event of any significant health
conditions, the adult leader should require proof of an examination
by a physician.
Those with physical handicaps can enjoy and benefit from aquatics if
the handicaps are known and necessary precautions taken.

Swimming Ability
A person who has not been classified as a "swimmer" may
ride as a passenger in a rowboat or motorboat with an adult
"swimmer" or in a canoe, raft, or sailboat with an adult
certified as a lifeguard or a lifesaver by a recognized agency. In
all other circumstances, the person must be a swimmer to participate
in an activity afloat. "Swimmers" must pass this test:

Jump feetfirst into water over the head in depth, level off,
and begin swimming. Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or
more of the following strokes; sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or
crawl; then swim 25 yards using an easy, resting backstroke. The 100
yards must be swum continuously and include at least one sharp turn.
After completing the swim, rest by floating.
This qualification test should be renewed annually.

Personal Flotation Equipment
Properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation
devices (PFDs) must be worn by all persons engaged in activity on
the open water (rowing, canoeing, sailing, boardsailing,
motorboating, waterskiing, rafting, tubing, and kayaking. Type II
and III PFDs are recommended.

Buddy System
All activity afloat must adhere to the principles of the buddy
system. The buddy system assures that for every person involved
in aquatics activity, at least one other person is always aware of
his or her situation and prepared to lend assistance immediately
when needed. Not only does every individual have a buddy, but every
craft should have a "buddy boat" when on the water.

Skill Proficiency
All persons participating in activity afloat must be trained and
experienced in watercraft handling skills, safety, and emergency
procedures.

For unit activity on white water, all participants must
complete special training by a BSA Aquatics Instructor or
qualified whitewater specialist.

Powerboat operators must be able to meet requirements for the
Motorboating merit badge or equivalent.

Except for whitewater and powerboat operation as noted above,
either a minimum of three hours' training and supervised
practice or meeting requirements for "basic handling
tests" is required for all float trips or open-water
excursions using unpowered craft.

For Cub Scouts: Canoeing and rafting for Cub Scouts
(including Webelos Scouts) is to be limited to council/district
events on flat water ponds or controlled lake areas free of
powerboats and sailboats. Prior to recreational canoeing, Cub Scouts
are to be instructed in basic handling skills and safety practices.

Planning

Float Plan. Know exactly where the unit will put in, where the
unit will pull out, and precisely what course will be followed.
Determine all stopover points in advance. Estimate travel time with
ample margins to avoid traveling under time pressures. Obtain
accurate and current maps and information on the waterway to be
traveled, and discuss the course with others who have made the trip
under similar seasonal conditions. (Preferably, an adult member of
the group should run the course before the unit trip.)

Local Rules. Determine which state and local laws or
regulations are applicable. If private property is to be used or
crossed, obtain written permission from the owners. All such
rules must be strictly observed.

Notification. The float plan must be filed with the
parents of participants and a member of the unit committee. For
any activity using canoes on running water, the float plan must
be filed with the local council service center. Notify
appropriate authorities, such as Coast Guard, state police, or
park personnel, when their jurisdiction is involved. When the
unit returns from this activity, persons given the float plan
should be so advised.

Weather. Check the weather forecast just before setting
out, know and understand the seasonal weather pattern for the
region, and keep an alert "weather eye." Imminent
rough weather should bring all ashore immediately.

Contingencies. Planning must anticipate possible
emergencies or other circumstances that could force a change in
the original plan. Identify and consider all such circumstances
in advance so that appropriate contingency plans can be
developed.

For Cub Scouts: Cub Scout canoeing and rafting does not
include "trips" or "expeditions" and is not to
be conducted on running water (i.e., rivers or streams); therefore,
some procedures are inapplicable. Suitable weather requires clear
skies, no appreciable wind, and warm air and water.

EquipmentAll equipment must be suited to the craft, to the water conditions,
and to the individual; must be in good repair; and must satisfy all
state and U.S. Coast Guard requirements. To the extent possible,
carry spare equipment. On long trips or when spare equipment is not
available, carry repair materials. Have appropriate rescue equipment
available for immediate use.

DisciplineAll participants should know, understand, and respect the rules
and procedures for safe unit activity afloat. The applicable rules
should be presented and learned prior to the outing, and should be
reviewed for all participants at the waterís edge just before the
activity begins. When Scouts know and understand the reasons for the
rules, they will observe them. When fairly and impartially applied,
rules do not interfere with the fun. Rules for safety, plus common
sense and good judgment, keep the fun from being interrupted by
tragedy..

Note: For cruising vessels (excluding rowboats, canoes, kayaks,
and rafts, but including sailboats and powerboats longer than 20 feet)
used in adult-supervised unit activities by a chartered Venturing crew
or Sea Scout ship specializing in watercraft operations or used in
adult-supervised program activity in connection with any high-adventure
program or other activity under the direct control of the National
Council, the standards and procedures in the Sea Scout Manual, No.
33239B, may be substituted for the "Safety Afloat"
standards.

Properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation
devices (PFDs) must be worn by all persons engaged in activity on the
open water (rowing, canoeing, sailing, boardsailing, motorboating,
waterskiing, rafting, tubing, and kayaking).

Only U.S. Coast Guard-approved equipment (types I, II, or III) is
acceptable for use in Scouting aquatics. Ski belts are not
acceptable. Scouts and unit leaders should learn which type is
appropriate for each specific circumstance and how to wear and check for
proper fit.

Swimming activity in turbid water should be limited to surface
swimming. Turbid water exists when a 12-inch white disk at the depth of
3 feet is not visible from above the surface of the water. Underwater
swimming, headfirst entry (except for racing dives), and board diving
are not permitted in turbid water. Supervised instruction in
lifesaving skills and surface diving may be conducted in confined areas
of turbid water not exceeding 8 feet in depth and free of bottom
hazards.

Snorkeling and scuba skills are taught and practiced only in clear
water. Clear water exists when a 12-inch disk at a depth of 8 feet is
visible from above the surface of the water.

BSA Lifeguard training has been established to provide units
(packs, troops. teams, and posts) with qualified individuals within
their own membership to give knowledgeable supervision for activities on
or in the water. The first standard in the Safe Swim Defense and Safety
Afloat guidelines establishes a need for qualified supervision. An adult
currently trained as a BSA Lifeguard or an adult leader assisted
by a Scout holding BSA Lifeguard training meets this
requirement. To enroll in the BSA Lifeguard course, you must be at least
14 years of age or have completed the eighth grade. The latest
requirements for BSA Lifeguard certification are included on the
application form, No. 34435. Every unit leader is encouraged to become
certified or to be certain that at least one youth or adult member of
the unit has such certification.

Swimming areas should be large enough to avoid crowding (minimum of
40 square feet per swimmer). Note the following in accordance with Safe
Swim Defense rules. Mark off the area for three groups: not more than
3.5 feet for nonswimmers; from shallow water to just over the head for
beginners; deep water not more than 12 feet for swimmers.

"Diving" refers to any water entry where the feet are not
making first contact with the water. "Elevated entry" refers
to any water entry from a height more than 18 inches above the water.
According to BSA Safe Swim Defense standards, no diving or swimming
activity of any kind is done in water with a depth greater than 12 feet.

All water entry must be feetfirst where the water has less then 7
feet of unobstructed depth. A leaping entry is recommended where water
is at or above head level; a step-down or jump-down entry from a sitting
position is recommended for shallow water.

No diving is permitted in water with less than 7 feet of unobstructed
depth. Diving is permitted in clear water over 7 feet deep from a dock,
pier, or platform that is no more than 18 inches above the water
surface. For elevated entry from 18 inches high but less than 40 inches
above the water surface, clear and unobstructed water dept must be at
least 9 feet. The water must be clear enough to enable supervisory and
guard personnel to see the diver at the deepest part of the plunge.

Board diving is permitted only from boards, mounted on a fixed (not
floating) platform or deck, no more than 40 inches (approximately 1
meter) above the water surface. Clear water depth below the board should
be 9 to 12 feet. A guard or supervisor should be positioned where the
diver can be seen at all times beneath the surface. There should be no
other surface or underwater activity or obstruction for at least 15 feet
on either side of the board and 25 feet in front of the board. Diving
should always be done straight ahead from the board, never to the sides.

Any elevated entry from a height greater than 40 inches must be
feetfirst and only from a fixed platform or solid footing no more than
60 inches above the water surface. Clear water depth should be 10 to 12
feet. Other protective measures and distances are the same as for board
diving.

Any person possessing, displaying, or using scuba equipment in
connection with any Scouting-related activity must be currently
certified by the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI)
or the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). These two
agencies are recognized by the Boy Scouts of America for scuba training
and instruction. Alternatively, if PADI or NAUI training and instruction
is not available, certification may be accepted from other agencies that
comply with Recreational Scuba Training Council (RSTC) guidelines,
provided that such acceptance has been expressly approved by the BSA
local council in consultation with the BSA national Health and Safety
Service.

Scuba programs may be a part of Boy Scout or Venturing
activities for participants who are 14 years of age or older. Persons
meeting the age requirement and properly certified may participate in
group dives under the supervision of a responsible adult who is
currently certified as a dive master, assistant instructor, or any
higher rating from NAUI or PADI. Student divers must be under the
supervision of a currently certified NAUI or PADI instructor. No
exceptions to the BSA age requirement are permitted, and any NAUI or
PADI age requirements for those 14 and older shall be followed in all
Scout-related activities. A 14-year-old participant with a junior diver
certification may dive only when accompanied by a buddy who is a
certified open-water diver at least 18 years old.

Because of lack of frequency of diving by most sports divers, it
is important that any certified divers be screened and evaluated by a
certified diving instructor before participating in BSA-related
activities. The skills to be evaluated include the following:

Persons with symptomatic or active asthma/reactive airway
disease (commonly known as RAD) should not be allowed to scuba dive.
This would include, at a minimum, anyone who:

Is currently taking medication for asthma/RAD

Has received treatment for bronchospasm in the past five
years

Has exercised induced bronchospasm

Has cold-induced bronchospasm

Persons with asymptomatic asthma/RAD who wish to scuba dive
should be referred to a pulmonary medical specialist who is also
knowledgeable about diving medicine for a complete medical
examination, including exercise and bronchial challenge testing. Any
determination of fitness for diving must be made on the basis of
such examination and specific testing.

The Snorkeling, BSA, requirements have been developed to introduce
Scout-age children to the special skills, equipment, and safety
pre-cautions associated with snorkeling; to encourage the development of
aquatics skills that promote fitness and recreation; and to provide a
solid foundation of skills and knowledge for those who later will
participate in more advanced underwater activity.

Any trained Aquatics Instructor, BSA may serve as a counselor. A
person recognized and certified as a snorkeling instructor by the
Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), the National
Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), American Red Cross, or the
Young Menís Christian Association (YMCA) also qualifies as a
Snorkeling, BSA, counselor.

Instructions must be conducted in clear, confined water with a
maximum depth of 12 feet. A swimming pool is recommended. All
requirements must be completed as stated on the application form, which
is available at your local council service center. The counselor may not
omit, vary, or add requirements. The requirements are presented in the
order in which they should be taught to the Scout. The completed
application should be submitted to the local council service center by
the counselor or unit leader.

Snorkeling Safety is the recommended procedure for conducting group
snorkeling at a private or public pool, wilderness pond, stream, or
wherever the water looks inviting enough to take a dip.

Qualified Supervision
All snorkeling activity must be supervised by a mature and
conscientious adult age 21 or older who understands and knowingly
accepts responsibility for the well-being and safety of the youth
members in his or her care; who is experienced in the water and is
confident of his or her ability to respond in the event of an
emergency; and who is trained in and committed to compliance with
the eight points of BSA Snorkeling Safety.

Physical Fitness
All persons must present evidence of fitness for snorkeling activity
with a complete health history from physician, parent, or legal
guardian. The adult supervisor should adjust all supervision,
discipline, and protection to anticipate any potential risks
associated with individual health conditions. In the event of any
significant health conditions, a medical evaluation by a physician
should be required by the adult leader. Those with physical
disabilities can enjoy and benefit from aquatics if the disabilities
are known and the necessary precautions are taken.

Safe Area
Training in the use of snorkeling equipment shall be performed in
clear, confined water that is not more than 12 feet deep.
Snorkeling may be done in water outside of a confined area under the
direction of the qualified supervisor if the participant has met the
BSA snorkeling requirements. The local conditions and ability of
those engaged in the snorkeling activity should be considered by the
qualified supervisor to determine if any special precautions should
be taken.
Snorkeling shall not be done if boat traffic, waves, current, water
temperature, or weather conditions in the area are deemed unsafe by
the qualified supervisor. Time in the water should be adjusted based
on the water temperature.

Proper Equipment

The snorkeling equipment shall be properly fitted and in good
repair.

The use of snorkeling vests and personal flotation devices is
at the discretion of the qualified supervisor based on the local
conditions and the ability of the person(s) engaged in the
snorkeling activity.

A diver-down flag must be used in accordance with local rules
and regulations.

Appropriate lifesaving equipment in good repair is ready and
available to the qualified lookout while supervising the
snorkeling activity.

Qualified Lookout
The qualified lookouts are stationed in a location (either afloat or
ashore) where it is possible to see and hear all those engaged in
the snorkeling activity. The qualified lookout is a strong swimmer
with lifeguard skills (i.e., competent swimmers with basic
water-rescue skills serve as both lookouts and lifeguards). A
minimum of two qualified lookouts are provided with at least one
qualified lookout for every eight snorkelers in the water.

Ability
Beginners and nonswimmers in clear, confined water of the
appropriate depth may use masks and fins, separately or together,
under close supervision. Training for Snorkeling, BSA is limited to
qualified swimmers.
Snorkeling in open water is limited to those classified as swimmers
unless the supervisor determines that those in the other ability
groups may safely participate while wearing a properly fitted
personal flotation device.
A group should not undertake a snorkeling activity in open water
unless all participants, including the adult supervisor, have
completed basic instruction in the Snorkeling, BSA requirements.

Buddy System
All participants in snorkeling activities should be paired as
buddies and remain close enough that they are constantly aware of
their buddy's location and condition. Generally, buddies should take
turns making breath-holding dives. That is, one buddy remains at the
surface, floating with his mask in the water while breathing through
the snorkel, and keeps an eye on the buddy who is down. When the
diver surfaces, both buddies should check their position relative to
the rest of the group before moving on or letting the other buddy
dive.
It is the combined responsibility of the adult supervisor, the
lookout, and the lifeguards to know the number of people in the
water at all times, to make periodic checks of that number, and to
call for buddy checks when it is necessary to confirm that number.

Discipline
Be sure everyone understands and agrees that snorkeling is allowed
only with proper supervision and use of the complete BSA Snorkeling
Safety. The applicable rules should be presented and learned prior
to the outing, and should be reviewed for all participants at the
beginning of the snorkeling activity. Scouts should respect and
follow all directions and rules of the adult supervisor. When people
know the reason for rules and procedures they are likely to follow
them. Be strict and fair, showing no favoritism.

Safe waterskiing starts with safe equipment; a thorough knowledge of
techniques; competent instruction; an efficient, careful tow boat
operator; and a conscientious observer. A life jacket is a must for all
water-skiers. Skis should be in good shape and free from sharp or
protruding edges. The boat operator should be driving solely for the
benefit, satisfaction, and safety of the skier. The boat and skier
should stay away from docks, swimmers, boaters, people who are fishing,
and other objects

The Water-Skier's Safety Code and Boat Driver's Safety Code are found
in the Waterskiing merit badge pamphlet. These are guidelines to
be followed by all those involved in the sport of waterskiing.

The BSA board sailing program has been developed to introduce
Scout-age children to basic board sailing skills, equipment, and safety
precautions, to encourage development of skills that promote fitness and
safe aquatics recreation, and to lay a skill and knowledge foundation
for those who will later participate in more advanced and demanding
activities on the water.

Any person recognized and certified as an instructor by Windsurfer
International or the U.S. Board Sailing Association may serve as a
counselor for this award with the approval of the local council service
center. Any person trained and experienced in board sailing skills and
safety may serve as a counselor for this award in a Scout summer camp
program under the direction and supervision of a currently certified BSA
Aquatics Instructor.

Instruction in recreational activity must be conducted according to
the BSA guidelines for board sailing. The board sailing award is now
available for inclusion in Scout programs.

The American Whitewater Affiliation (AWA) Safety Code includes ten
recommendations for river safety:

Be a competent swimmer.

Wear a PFD.

Keep your canoe under control, always!

Be aware of river hazards and avoid them.

Boating alone is not recommended; preferred minimum is three to a
craft.

Be suitably equipped.

Wear shoes (tennis shoes or special canoeing shoes are best).

Tie your glasses on.

Carry knife and waterproof matches (also compass and map).

Don't wear bulky clothing that will waterlog.

Wear a crash helmet where upsets are likely.

Carry an extra paddle and canoe-repair tape.

Open canoes should have bow and stern lines (painters)
securely attached. Use at least 15 feet of 1/4 or 3/8 inch rope.
Secure them to the canoe so they are readily available but will
not entangle feet and legs in case of a spill.

If you do spill, hang on to your canoe and get to the upstream
end. (Note: If you are heading into rough rapids and quick rescue is
not expected, or if water is numbing cold, then swim for shore or a
rock where you can climb out of the water.)

When you are with a group:

Organize the group to even out canoeing ability.

Keep the group compact for mutual support.

Don't crowd rapids! Let each canoe complete the run before the
next canoe enters.

The ScoutingBSA.org web site is a
legacy site of the Viking Council BSA, now Northern Star Council.
This site was the original council site and was active from 1996 to
2002 and run by volunteers. As the web became more important to
Scouting, the council took over with paid staff. This site is no
longer maintained but is an interesting snapshot of an early Scouting
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send a message to the Webmaster. Thank you
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